Concert kicks off holiday season

The 4th Infantry Division Brass Band performs at McMahon Auditorium Dec. 4, 2014, during its holiday concert for the Joint Task Force Carson community. (Photo by Sgt. William Smith)

By Sgt. William Smith

4th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office

The 4th Infantry Division Band performed “A Holiday Kaleidoscope” at McMahon Auditorium Dec. 4, 2014, in honor of the 4th Infantry Division’s birthday and to bolster the community’s holiday spirit.

The concert began at 7:17 p.m. — 1917 military time in honor of the 4th Inf. Div. activation Dec. 10, 1917.

The band played a variety of songs in a multitude of genres to honor the many different backgrounds of Soldiers and community members.

Spc. Libby Kennedy, flutist, 4th Inf. Div. Band, said she was honored and excited to put on her first holiday show for the community members of Joint Task Force Carson.

“I am super stoked to be a part of something so big,” she said. “It is a good way to start the holiday season. I really love that we started the concert at 1917 hours to commemorate all the division has done over the last century.”

Another band member said he was happy to tell the Army story any way he can.

“I have always wanted to play music since I was a child,” said Staff Sgt. Mike Abrams, euphoniumist, 4th Inf. Div. Band. “It is very fulfilling that I can tell the Army’s story through doing something that I love.”

One community member highly recommended the performance for anyone who can make it next year.

“The whole concert was amazing,” said Mike Abernathey, staff member, Fort Carson Special Events Center. “They put a lot of hard work into it and their performance was top-notch. I loved the encore and it was definitely philharmonic caliber.”

Deputy Commanding General for Maneuver Brig. Gen. Randy A. George, 4th Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Carson, applauded the band for its performance and wished everyone a safe and enjoyable holiday season.

“One thing I think about is being home for this holiday season,” George said. “Please keep those that are serving on the frontline keeping us safe and all of the Gold Star Families in your thoughts